HEADMASTER Chris Plant lent a hand - or, rather, an arm - to support a health initiative at his school.

He offered his left arm to undergo a blood pressure and cholesterol test at St Paul's Primary School, in Church Road, Stockingford.

Mr Plant showed the lead as the school, with 464 pupils, hosted a Healthy Week designed to give pupils, parents and staff an insight into a healthier lifestyle. He said: "It was a really worthwhile week for everyone and it focused on children's health as well as the health of staff and parents."

During the event, a range of specialist groups and organisations visited the school to talk about the importance of exercise and a healthy diet.

The children were told about the beneficial effects that walking has on the body - and also why they should make time to relax.

School nurses talked about teeth and hygiene.

Nearby residents were invited to a Feeling Good Evening, offering free health checks, advice on stopping smoking, keeping fit and healthy options for school lunch boxes.

Cynthia Lawrence, health education co-ordinator at St Paul's, said: "We have had an exciting week. The children are going to write a newsletter for parents to let them know what they have found out about being healthy."